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Holistic Allergy Cures

The American Academy of Allergy Asthma and Immunology (AAAAI) claims that over 50 million Americans suffer from allergies. The Mayo Clinic defines an allergic reaction as "when your immune system reacts to a foreign substance such as pollen, bee venom or pet dander." For the millions of Americans who suffer from allergies year-round, many do not want to take medication for extended periods of time. Using holistic methods to treat allergies can be just as effective as medication without side effects.

  1. Use Homeopathic Remedies

    • Use homeopathic remedies on a daily basis during allergy season. Homeopathics operate from the philosophy that "like cures like." If a particular plant causes the sinuses to swell, the plant's extract in a very diluted state will initiate the body's natural system to regulate itself. Go to a health food store and purchase homeopathic remedies for your allergy symptoms. Purchase euphrasia for allergies that create swollen or irritated eyes, a runny nose and watery eyes. Purchase ferrum phosphoricum for any allergy symptoms producing inflammation, such as in the sinus cavity. Use gelsemium for frequent sneezing, a heavy bodily feeling and dryness in the nose. Follow the directions on the labels. See a doctor if the symptoms continue or worsen in seven days.

    Use Saline Drops

    • Use saline drops, or salt water, to help relieve dried eyes and maintain proper moisture. Salt water serves two purposes: it moistens the eyes, and it clears out any unwanted irritants. Use two drops in each eye, every 30 minutes until you feel relief. Make your own saline drops at home with a half cup of water and 1 tsp.of salt. Use either distilled or purified water without any mineral additives. Mix the salt in warm to hot water to ensure that the salt is dissolved entirely. Use a clean dropper to apply to the eyes or use an eye cup, available at most pharmacies. Wash the eyes out with the saline solution once a day by tipping a cup with saline solution in it over the face. Open the eyelids for 15 seconds to expose the entire eye to the salt water. The saline solution will also help to calm any irritation.

    Use a Neti Pot

    • Use a neti pot to clear the sinus cavity of excess mucus, cleanse and purify the sinus cavities and reduce swelling by soothing them with a saline wash. Mix 1 cup of warm water with ½ tsp. of sea salt and a ½ tsp. of glycerin until all ingredients are dissolved. Sea salt and glycerin can be purchased at either a grocery store or pharmacy. Pour the warm mixture into a neti pot. Tilt the head so the chin is parallel with the shoulders. Place the opening of the neti pot on the right nostril and allow the solution to go throughout the sinus cavities and come out the other nostril. Gently blow your nose and repeat the process on the other nostril.

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